The popularity of 5k Runs

The 5k run is most common running event today. 5 kilometers, or 3.1 miles, is so popular because it is easier to complete without significant endurance training. This allows beginner and novice runners an opportunity to enter this type of run.

Also, 5 kilometers is a great distance with joggers as it is suitable for people to maintain fitness, as opposed to long distance endurance running which would take a much greater time commitment to train for.

In addition to the obvious cardio and fat reducing benefits, a 5k run also has tremendous mental advantages, including stress release and improved clarity. There are studies that show continuous exercise can produce short term euphoria, associated with feelings of profound contentment and well-being. This has been labeled as “runners high”.

So long story short, a 5k run is the most popular running event because it is a great distance. Great for your mind and great for your body. Treat yourself to something amazing and commit to running 5k’s this upcoming year. It can be a charity event, fun run, or even a competition. What matters is that you get out there a do it.

1 Comment

A great way to challenge yourself is to record your times and see the progress you are making. Not being a runner, my first 5k took 50 minutes. Later that year, I recorded a 5k in 31 minutes. I may not make the Olympics but I did feel the improvement in many ways. 🙂